I haven't had a problem with mine persay. However, if you have a length of ethernet cable laying around, try that and see if you're still getting the popping sounds. If so, then you'll know it's not your cable. On the plus side, if it is your cable and it's only a week old, you should be able to return / exchange it.

No issues at all. The only real difference between the VDI cable and a standard RJ-45 is the VDI has been ruggedized. I wouldn't recommend playing live with a standard ethernet cable, but it will work in a pinch.